Things To Do
in Telavi
Telavi is a picturesque town located in the eastern part of Georgia, known for its historic landmarks and beautiful landscapes. Surrounded by lush vineyards and mountains, Telavi is considered the cultural and economic center of the Kakheti region. The town is home to notable attractions such as the Telavi Fortress, Batonis Tsikhe Castle, and the Alexander Chavchavadze Museum.
Telavi also boasts a vibrant traditional market where visitors can sample local wines, cheeses, and handicrafts.
- "Gamarjoba" - Hello
- "Madloba" - Thank you
- "Bach'os gogo" - Excuse me
- "Ra gogo?" - How are you?
- "Nagadi" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Alaverdi Monastery. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture as you explore the grounds.
Head to the Telavi Fortress for stunning views of the Alazani Valley. Learn about the fortress's history while taking in the scenic surroundings.
Enjoy a traditional Georgian meal at a local restaurant. Try dishes like khinkali and khachapuri to end your day on a tasty note.
Visit a nearby vineyard for a morning wine tasting tour. Learn about the unique Georgian winemaking process and sample some local varieties.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant with a view. Pair your meal with regional wines for an immersive experience.
Take a stroll through Telavi's quaint streets. Stop by a local café for a relaxing evening drink or dessert.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, with ancient architecture and local traditions.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including vineyards and the Caucasus Mountains.
- Warm and welcoming local community, often known for hospitality.
- Association with wine production, particularly in the Kakheti region, which is popular for wine tourism.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized sectors.
- Public transportation can be inadequate, making travel challenging without a personal vehicle.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in larger Georgian cities.
- Fewer entertainment and cultural activities compared to major urban centers.
- Healthcare facilities may be less advanced than in larger cities.
Best Activities in Telavi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails of the Caucasus Mountains surrounding Telavi, offering stunning views and a chance to experience the rich biodiversity of the region.
Visit local vineyards and wineries in the Alazani Valley to sample Georgia's famous wines and learn about traditional winemaking processes.
Discover the historical Tsinandali Estate, which features beautiful gardens and architecture, as well as opportunities to enjoy local wine in a picturesque setting.
Take a leisurely bike ride along the Alazani River, enjoying the beautiful landscape and local wildlife while experiencing the charm of the countryside.
Visit Lagodekhi National Park to observe diverse bird species and experience the tranquility of untouched nature in a protected area.
Engage in cultural tours to explore ancient monasteries, churches, and historical sites like the Batonis Fortress and the Alaverdi Monastery.
Enjoy a relaxing picnic in one of the many nature reserves around Telavi, surrounded by the spectacular scenery and fresh air.
Places to Visit in Telavi
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes, perfect for photos.
Scenic hilltop location providing stunning views of the Alazani Valley and the Caucasus Mountains.
Overlooking Telavi with picturesque vineyards and mountains in the background, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Telavi
Telavi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish, khachapuri is a traditional Georgian cheese-filled bread, often topped with a runny egg. It's available at almost every local bakery in Telavi, and particularly popular at Pur Pur restaurant.
Must-Try!
This dish consists of fried eggplant slices filled with a flavorful walnut paste. It's commonly found in family-run eateries like Chiko's Tavern.
Chashushuli is a hearty beef stew cooked with tomatoes and spices, offering a true taste of Kakhetian cuisine. You can savor this dish at Chateau Mere's restaurant.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Telavi Market is a bustling hub of culinary delights, with vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and local cheeses. You can also find street food stalls offering churchkhela, a traditional Georgian candy made of grape must, nuts, and flour.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Telavi, a warm greeting is essential. A firm handshake is common among men, while women may greet each other with a kiss on the cheek or a hug. Always greet the eldest or most senior person first.
Georgians are known for their hospitality. If invited to a local's home, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as sweets or wine. When dining, it’s polite to try everything offered to you and to express appreciation for the meal.
While casual attire is generally acceptable, dressing modestly is appreciated, especially in religious sites. When visiting churches or monasteries, women should cover their heads and wear long skirts, while men should wear long trousers.
Safety
Tipping in Telavi
Ensure a smooth experience
In Telavi, Georgia, tipping is customary in restaurants, cafes, and bars, typically ranging from 10% to 15% of the total bill. It is considered a gesture of appreciation for good service. While not mandatory, it is appreciated by service staff.
Payment methods in Telavi include cash and card transactions. Many establishments accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller shops and markets. The Georgian Lari (GEL) is the official currency.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for blooming flowers, mild temperatures, and lively festivals.
Ideal for warm weather, outdoor activities, and enjoying the lush green landscapes.
Great for wine lovers, as the grape harvest season offers wine festivals and beautiful vineyard landscapes.
Perfect for experiencing a winter wonderland with snow-covered surroundings and cozy indoor activities.
Telavi at Night
Hiking in Telavi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination near Telavi, Kvareli Mountain offers stunning views of the Alazani Valley and surrounding vineyards. The trails vary in difficulty, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Located a short drive from Telavi, this national park features diverse ecosystems and beautiful landscapes. Hikers can explore various trails leading to waterfalls, ancient trees, and rich wildlife.
About an hour's drive from Telavi, the town of Signagi offers picturesque hiking routes with panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains and the Alazani Plain. The trails also lead to historical sites within the fortress.
The area around Tsinandali, famous for its winery and historic estate, has several hiking trails that provide serene countryside views and access to nearby cultural landmarks.
This picturesque mountain pass offers hiking opportunities with routes through dense forests and steep climbs, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Aiports
How to reach Telavi by plane.
The main international airport serving the capital city of Tbilisi, located approximately 80 kilometers from Telavi.
An international airport located in Batumi, on the Black Sea coast, approximately 200 kilometers from Telavi.
An international airport located near Kutaisi, about 130 kilometers from Telavi, serving as a secondary hub for low-cost airlines.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Telavi, comprising a significant portion of the population.
A minority ethnic group in Telavi, primarily involved in agriculture and trade.
Another minority group present in Telavi, contributing to the local culture and economy.
A smaller ethnic group in Telavi, with historical roots in the region.
Includes various smaller ethnicities and groups contributing to the cultural diversity of Telavi.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Telavi, with local clubs participating in various regional leagues and passionate support from the community.
Basketball has a significant following in Telavi, with local teams competing at different levels and many youths participating in the sport.
Rugby is gaining popularity in Telavi, with emerging clubs and a growing interest in regional competitions.
Wrestling has deep cultural roots in Georgia, and Telavi is no exception, with traditional wrestling events being common.
Volleyball is played widely in schools and recreational leagues, making it a popular sport among the youth in Telavi.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Telavi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Georgian cuisine heavily features meats and dairy, many restaurants in Telavi offer vegetable-based dishes like pkhali (vegetable pâté) and lobio (bean stew). Vegan visitors can also enjoy exploring dishes made with locally grown produce.
Although Georgian cuisine often includes bread and wheat-based products, some restaurants in Telavi offer gluten-free alternatives, and are accommodating to dietary requests. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly for a pleasant dining experience.